3 (maybe 6) speed touring
I am in the planning stages for a tour across the country, east-to-west, most likely via the Transamerica Trail. I am a strong cyclist, avid racer, and currently work as a mechanic. So I feel confident I'll be able to make it-- but that's enough background info.
I am going to be touring on a early 80's lugged Nishiki that I have built as a three-speed but I have been tossing around making it into a six speed. I realize that this probably sounds like a ridiculous proposition with the not-so-recent invention of the derailleur, but I am going to ride with the 3 speed (but a 6 speed could be a little nicer in the mountains). My question is whether or not anyone here has ever made or seen a dingle (sturmey archer compatible) cog. I am pretty sure that I can weld to cogs together and sacrifice a perfect chainline for double the gears, but am just curious if anyone has done this.
thanks in advance
chris